When it comes to cancer, it's hard to know where you stand. It is because symptoms vary by type of cancer since different cancers form in different parts of the body. One common symptom of kidney cancer is blood in the urine. Other symptoms are weight loss, fatigue, fever, and weakness which are also shared with many diseases besides kidney cancer.
It's essential to get tested if you experience any of these symptoms.
1. Blood in the Urine
Blood in the urine, also called hematuria, is a significant symptom of kidney cancer. It occurs when a tumor in the kidneys damages tiny blood vessels, causing bleeding in the urine. While this symptom is unique to kidney cancer, it's also shared with many other diseases like an enlarged prostate or urinary tract infection. If you notice blood in your urine, it's essential to get checked for kidney cancer. Watch for dark-colored urine, red or pink urine, or red flecks of blood in the toilet bowl. A doctor may want to test the urine for blood in some cases.
2. Weight Loss
A change in how you look and feel may be a sign of kidney cancer. Weight loss is expected with kidney cancer, but it can also occur with other diseases like heart failure or liver disease. Some people who lose weight may feel weak, tired, and light-headed. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, or a low appetite. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to visit your doctor for a check-up.
3. Fatigue
Don't ignore fatigue. Fatigue is a symptom that many people dismiss and ignore. But, due to its association with cancer and kidney disease, it's essential to seek help. Fatigue can be caused by many factors, including low blood counts, anemia, dehydration, or problems with the thyroid gland. Visit your doctor if you experience unexplained fatigue that lasts for three weeks or more.
4. Fever
Fever is a common symptom of various diseases, including kidney cancer and other cancers. But, it's usually only present when the body has been fighting off an infection such as pneumonia. When the body is fighting off a tumor, it's essential to seek medical attention. A fever over 104 degrees Fahrenheit is a strong indicator that there may be something wrong with your kidneys. If you have any signs of infection like chills, nausea, or vomiting, it's time to visit your doctor.
5. Weakness
Like fatigue, weakness should not be ignored. It's a strong indicator of kidney cancer, often associated with a previous diagnosis of kidney disease. Deficiency may occur suddenly or slowly get worse over time. It is common for people with kidney cancer to experience muscle mass or tone changes. Many people with kidney cancer feel weaker when they stand up from a lying position or a seated position to standing.
6. Back Pain
Back pain is joint and can be caused by many conditions from kidney cancer to heart disease. If you experience back pain, get checked for kidney cancer. Back pain is a symptom of kidney cancer in about 10% of patients with the disease. Additionally, a kidney cancer diagnosis increases if you have unexplained back pain with weight loss or fatigue.
If you are experiencing blood in your urine or other symptoms, visit your doctor. Get checked if you experience a fever, back pain, weakness, or weight loss. Cancer doesn't always have clear signs. Many cancers don't cause any signs or symptoms until the disease is quite advanced and treatment options are limited.
